KEY POINTS
- Nigeria’s oil production rose to 1.71 million bpd in July 2025, the highest in six months.
- NUPRC credits the increase to better security and operational efficiency, with terminals like Forcados and Bonny leading gains.
- Government targets 2.1 million bpd by 2026, aiming to restore investor confidence and strengthen OPEC compliance.
As it strives to meet ambitious output targets and draw in foreign investment, Nigeria’s oil production has surged to its highest level in six months, a development that regulators say highlights renewed momentum in Africa’s largest crude producer.
According to the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), production increased to 1.71 million barrels per day in July from 1.69 million in June and 1.56 million the previous year. About 205,000 barrels of condensates and 1.51 million barrels of crude oil are included in the figure.
For an industry that has suffered from persistent theft, underinvestment, and operational failures, the gain represents a 9.9% year-over-year increase and a stable recovery.
Security Gains, Operational Efficiency Drive Recovery
The NUPRC attributed the stronger numbers to tighter security across oilfields and improved efficiency in upstream operations.
“We have been unwavering in our commitment to implementing a robust regulatory regime,” the Commission said, noting that the latest gains prove the effectiveness of its push to reduce crude theft and stabilize production.
Gbenga Komolafe, the chief executive of the NUPRC, stated that Nigeria is still committed to fostering an atmosphere that draws in fresh investment and motivates current investors to grow. To emphasize that “Nigeria is ready for business,” he hosted Nicolas Terraz, head of exploration and production at TotalEnergies, in Abuja on Thursday.
The July upswing was driven by multiple terminals. With 9.04 million barrels lifted during the month, the Forcados terminal led the way, while Bonny reported a 12.7% month-over-month increase, demonstrating renewed resilience across export channels that have historically been susceptible to disruptions.
By 2026, the government wants to ramp up production to 2.1 million barrels per day. The most recent increase strengthens Nigeria’s position in the international energy market and brings the nation closer to fulfilling its OPEC commitments and budget assumptions, even though it is still below pre-pandemic levels.
However, industry analysts warn that maintaining the momentum will depend on preventing theft, making sure regulations are clear, and obtaining the long-term funding needed to update infrastructure.
